BUCHANAN — This Tuesday, Sept. 11 marks the 17th year of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon that left nearly 3,000 people dead. While in New York, a Ground Zero memorial pays homage to the tragedy with two immense fountains and a memorial plaque, some citizens of Buchanan will continue a longstanding tradition to remember the tragedy in their own way.

Through a group of community partnerships, the Buchanan American Legion Post # 51 Buchanan Police Department, Fire Chaplains and The Buchanan Area Ministerial Association will   host a Patriot Day at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11, at the Buchanan Common Area, located in downtown Buchanan.

Marvin Pruett, the commander for the American Legion Post #51, said that the tradition began in 2002, the year after the attack.

“[We] remember all the people that passed away on that day and all the lives that were destroyed,” Pruett said.

The event will include a performance by the Buchanan High School band, and a speech by Larry Money, a member of the American Legion. A chaplain will also lead people in a prayer.

Pruett said the event typically draws between 75 and 100 people to gather in the common area.

The goal of Patriot Day is to keep the tragedy from fading from people’s minds, Pruett said.

“It reminds them of all the things that happened on 9/11 that they should never forget,” Pruett said. “It is something that should be history forever. A lot of people lost their lives and husbands, grandfathers and kids. It should be always remembered.”

Pruett said he is a Vietnam veteran and is proud to have the chance to play a role in Patriot Day, where he will perform with the color guard. He encouraged others to attend the ceremony, too.

“Just to give thanks and remember and hear some of the things that happen,” Pruett said.

For more information, contact the American Legion Post # 51 at (269) 695-6633.